Listening to voices in the club and creating a space to share

Listening to Voices in the Club

One of the clearest signs of a healthy club or organisation is how well it listens.

Listening isn’t just about formal consultations or long surveys. It’s about creating the right conditions for people to share how the club feels and knowing what to do with what they tell us.

When clubs listen well, they don’t just meet safeguarding expectations. They become stronger, more welcoming, and more enjoyable places to be.

Creating the Space to Share

People are more likely to speak up when they feel comfortable and safe to do so.

That means:

• Giving them time and opportunities to talk

• Asking questions in ways that feel natural and age-appropriate

• Paying attention to those who might not always speak up
  

This could be a quick check-in at the end of a session, a casual conversation, or simply noticing changes in behaviour or engagement. Creating space doesn’t require big structures; it starts with everyday interactions.

Making Sure Voices Are Heard

Listening isn’t just about giving people the chance to talk. It’s about showing that someone is really listening.

People need to know:

• Who they can talk to
  
• That their views will be taken seriously
  
• That they won’t get into trouble for speaking honestly
  

When we respond calmly, respectfully, and without judgment, it builds trust and confidence. Over time, this helps people feel more comfortable sharing concerns or ideas.

What Families Notice When They Join a Club

Families also need to feel that their voices matter.

Early on, they notice:

• How easy it is to ask questions
  
• Whether communication feels open and respectful
  
• If the club welcomes feedback rather than avoids it
  

When families feel listened to, trust grows. When trust grows, families are more likely to stay engaged, raise concerns early, and work in partnership with the club.

Showing That Feedback Leads to Change

One of the most important parts of listening is what happens next.

People need to see that:

• Their feedback is acknowledged
  
• It’s been thought about
  

Where possible, it leads to small, visible changes

Not every suggestion can be acted on, and that’s okay. What matters is explaining decisions clearly and showing that feedback has influenced thinking, even if the outcome isn’t exactly what was suggested.

Learning From Feedback (Even When It’s Hard)

Feedback can be uncomfortable, especially when people care deeply about their club. But feedback isn’t criticism, it’s insight.

When clubs treat feedback as a chance to learn:

• Problems are spotted earlier
  
• Relationships are strengthened
  
• People feel safer speaking up again in the future
  

A calm, curious response sends a powerful message: your voice matters here.

What Listening Looks Like in Practice

Listening in clubs doesn’t have to be formal or complicated. Often, it’s about small, consistent actions that show people their views matter.

Creating Opportunities to Share

• Coaches build in a quick check-in at the end of sessions
  
• Young people are asked how sessions feel, not just how they performed
  
• Quiet spaces are available for conversations if someone doesn’t want to speak in a group
  

Making It Clear Who to Talk To

Young people and families know who the CWO is and how to contact them

Coaches and volunteers are approachable and respond calmly

People are reminded regularly that it’s okay to ask questions or raise concerns

Taking What’s Shared Seriously

• Feedback is acknowledged, even if a solution isn’t immediate
  
• Concerns are followed up sensitively and appropriately
  
• People are thanked for speaking up, rather than made to feel awkward or “difficult”
  

Showing That Voices Make a Difference

• Small changes are explained and linked back to feedback
  
• Clubs share what they’ve learned and what they’re trying next
  
• When something can’t be changed, the reasons are communicated clearly
  

Keeping Listening Ongoing

• Feedback isn’t a one-off, it’s part of how the club operates
  
• Clubs check back in to see if changes have helped
  
• Listening becomes a normal part of club culture, not just a safeguarding task
  

How Mary Can Support

Mary Smith, our Sport Welfare Officer, supports clubs to:

• Create simple, practical opportunities for people to share their views
  
• Build confidence in responding to feedback
  
• Make listening part of everyday club culture
  

Tools like the Culture Reflection Tool can help clubs think about how listening works in practice, and where small changes could make a big difference.

A Final Thought

Listening doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means being open, curious, and willing to learn.

When clubs create space for voices to be heard, take them seriously, and show they make a difference, everyone benefits.

If you’d like support strengthening how your club listens, I’m always happy to have a conversation.

Contact Mary Smith on msmith@activehumber.co.uk for more information about the Culture Reflection Tool.